Modern love

It's almost that time of the year again when couples come out of their love nests in droves as they celebrate St Valentine's Day. This usually means that restaurants all over the city will be filled with couples celebrating the Day of Love (or Day of IDGAF -- depending on how you see it). This year, dare to be different. We at GURU are issuing you a challenge: do better. Well, it's not exactly a challenge since we're telling you what you can do, but if you want a different Valentine's Day experience then we've got you covered. (PS If you're not the risk-taker we think you are, turn a few pages to see our picks of where to eat on this day of love).

Throw a few axes with (not at) bae

I'm assuming if you're celebrating Valentine's Day with bae then you're relationship's solid. Warning: If the relationship is going through a rough patch, skip this, OK? Having said that, nothing says "I love you" like competing in an axe-throwing tournament and nothing proves you're perfect for each other like proving your partnership by going up against other couples. For a B1000 fee, you two get three hours worth of axe-throwing, two drinks and pizza slices. Plus, if you both are victorious and decimate other couples, you'll also win a prize. If you're single (but for some reason you're reading this), fret not. They've also got a speed dating event where you'll be paired off for some social axe throwing. Yes, social axe throwing. No, that's not code for something naughty, sadly.

Get taggin'

Relationships are all about teamwork. You've got to be sure that the other person has your back. What better way to prove that you're a team than at laser tag? Playsquare Laser Tag has a special promo for couples where you can enjoy a game for two priced at B500 (original price B700). You and bae can ready yourself and see whether you two can stand off against other players. If you're one of those competitive couples, face off against each other and see which one comes out on top (pun unintended).

Visit a risqué museum

If you feel like you and bae need to get cultured, a date to a museum or art exhibition is the way to go. There's nothing like spending time admiring pieces of art or at least acting like it just so you can say you're a sophisticated couple. I know what you're thinking though: "That's so typical!" Oh, I know. That's why I'm suggesting a museum date that's a little different -- visit Kamavijitra. This unique museum exhibits erotic art that's been collected from all over Thailand. Pieces range from paintings to life-size sculptures in… interesting positions, as well as a number of phallic amulets (like, a pretty sizeable number). While the entire thing is pretty risqué, it's also an interesting look at how sexuality was viewed back in the olden days of Thailand and how the subject has been labelled as taboo in recent times. Afterwards, you'll be taken to a nearby coffee shop named the Green Lantern Tea House (which has zero connection to the superhero) where you can sip on a free drink and continue exploring the history of sexuality with exhibits housed there. For B500, you and bae can have a titillating and educational experience at these two venues, which will definitely make this Valentine's memorable.

Photo: Eric E Surbano

Photo: Green Lantern Tea House

Have a naughty photo sesh

Romantic photoshoots are nothing new for couples and it may already be on your list of "to-do's" this Valentines. But take it up a notch and get a little more daring. You may have heard of the Hidden Closet in Thong Lor, a shop which sells a vast array of risqué items like sexy lingerie and BDSM toys. But they've also got a small, quaint location at Ekkamai, where they do fun photoshoots, complete with a professional photographer, make-up artist and the chance to pick out lingerie and toys for the shoot. If you fancy a boudoir photoshoot or perhaps something more 50 Shades of Grey, this is the place.. no judgement! Aside from the photoshoots, you can also rent out a boutique room and get shibari lessons. Protip: get the lessons then rent out the room to, you know, try it out. Get the Date Night package, which comes with a one-night stay, a shibari class with a photoshoot and a free bottle of bubbly for B14,000.

Take a helicopter ride

If you're the "money is no matter when it comes to matters of the heart" kinda person and want to score brownie points, look no further than The Peninsula's extravagant Valentine's offer. The crowing glory of this entire experience is starting the evening off on the hotel's 37th floor helipad. That's right, you're not reading this wrong. Jump aboard a helicopter for a 15-minute ride, which provides a view of Bangkok that people rarely see. This is followed by a nine-course dinner from Austrian chef Stefan Leitner with the likes of Sea urchin bisque with king crab and Foie gras praline with chocolate on the menu, but that's not why we are mentioning it. Next comes a professional photographer, who will capture every magical moment (and morsel), which will be framed for you. Helicopter ride + professional photos + extravagant dinner -- what could get more special than that? All this for a mere B112,999++. The small print is that it is limited to only five couples, so better get booking!

Photo: The Peninsula Bangkok

Get cruisin'

If you think that dinners on rooftops and anywhere else that's still connected to solid land is so last Valentine's, Supanniga Cruise is the way to go. Enjoy cruising the Chao Phraya while your eyes feast on the views and your mouth feasts on Thai delights like Moo cha muang and Choo chii goong along with a complimentary bottle of Taittinger Champagne Prestige Rosé. Plus, you're definitely bound to get some lovey dovey photos with the fantastic setting. The cruise, priced at B10,000, will pick up diners from River City Bangkok, Pier 2 at 6.15pm and goes on till 8.30pm.